Bangkok: The Ministry of Education has issued a warning to schools in the southern region to brace for thunderstorms and prepare for cold air masses as Typhoon ‘Manyi’ approaches Hainan Island this week. Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, spokesman for the Ministry, expressed concern over the potential impact on educational institutions, teachers, students, and parents. The typhoon is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding, particularly in the southern provinces, in addition to causing cold weather throughout the country. Safety measures are advised to be implemented by schools.

According to Thai News Agency, the Meteorological Department has issued a warning about Typhoon ‘Manyi’ in the upper South China Sea. Although the storm is not expected to move directly into Thailand, it is anticipated to cause thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy to very heavy rain, which may lead to flash floods. The storm’s movement is also expected to introduce a new cold air mass, dropping temperatures by
1-5 degrees Celsius and increasing wind strength across the country.

Educational institutions are advised to stay updated with warnings from the Meteorological Department and disaster prevention agencies to ensure they are informed about the storm and weather conditions. Schools should implement measures to ensure student safety, maintain building readiness by checking the stability of roofs and structures, and avoid travel during heavy rain or flooding. In the event of school closures or early dismissals, parents should be notified in advance to prepare for student pick-up and drop-off, and attention should be paid to health precautions due to potential weather-related illnesses.

The Ministry emphasizes the importance of safety measures for students, teachers, and educational personnel to mitigate the impact of unstable weather conditions. Travelers to the South should verify weather conditions prior to departure. Meanwhile, schools in the northern region facing sudden cold weather are urged to prioritize
student health, ensuring that schools remain safe zones in alignment with the ‘Safety in Educational Institutions’ policy led by Pol. Gen. Permpoon Chidchob, Minister of Education.